Chapter Summaries

Chapter Summary: “Installing the Formation, Han Xin's Fury”

Key Plot Points and Events

• Xu Changqing catches the intoxicated Han Xin after she collapses, using magically controlled vines, then places her in a flying shuttle rather than allowing her into his home.
• He orders Wangwang to guard Han Xin and alert him if she moves or anyone approaches.
• Xu installs the expensive [Breath-Hiding Formation] near the midpoint of the cave passage containing his Mutated Spirit Rice.
• After experimenting, he discovers the formation is activated by placing a spirit stone into the jade disk rather than supplying it with spiritual power directly.
• The formation successfully conceals the fragrance of the Mutated Spirit Rice from outside the cave. Xu blocks the cave entrance with stones for additional protection.
• Xu inspects the rice crops. The Mutated Mother Rice retains nine ears and the Child Rice six ears each; all remain healthy and continue developing.
• Later that night, Han Xin awakens in the flying shuttle beneath the stars. Realizing she was left outside, she becomes furious and confronts Xu.
• Xu placates her with a wineskin of higher-quality Yellow Rice Wine. Han Xin happily drinks it but then threatens to abduct Xu and force him to brew wine for her.

Character Developments

• Xu Changqing demonstrates caution, resourcefulness, and protectiveness toward his crops. His concern over Zhang Xue’s frequent visits motivates him to strengthen the cave’s concealment.
• He also shows practical boundaries and a dry sense of humor, refusing to let the drunken Han Xin into his house and joking that men and women should maintain distance.
• Han Xin is revealed as an unrestrained, wine-obsessed cultivator. Despite delivering the formation, she reacts angrily to being left outside, but her irritation quickly disappears when offered wine. Her final threat highlights her growing obsession with Xu’s brewing abilities.
• Wangwang acts as a loyal guard but is repulsed by Han Xin’s alcohol-scented presence, emphasizing its keen spirit-beast senses.

Significant Themes

• Protection and secrecy: Xu takes extensive measures to conceal the Mutated Spirit Rice from outsiders and prevent its valuable fragrance from attracting attention.
• Resourcefulness and self-reliance: He figures out how to operate the unfamiliar formation through trial and observation.
• Cultivation and gradual growth: The rice continues developing slowly, emphasizing patience and long-term investment.
• Humor and domestic absurdity: Serious cultivation matters are contrasted with mundane comedy, such as Wangwang’s disgust and Han Xin’s outrage at being made to sleep outdoors.
• Greed and desire: Han Xin’s overwhelming craving for wine creates both comic tension and a potential threat to Xu’s independence.

Character Interactions

• Xu and Wangwang interact as master and devoted companion, with Xu assigning the dog responsibility for guarding Han Xin.
• Xu and Han Xin maintain a teasing, adversarial relationship. She accuses him of being heartless, while he calmly counters her complaints and uses wine to appease her.
• Their exchange reveals a mix of trust, familiarity, and comic tension: Han Xin wants access to Xu’s wine, while Xu tries to keep her enthusiasm—and himself—under control.

Chapter Summary

Key Plot Points and Events

• Xu Changqing begins his daily farming routine at dawn, using the Greenwood Water-Dividing Hoe to manage irrigation and remove weeds from his Grade-Two Spirit Field.
• He activates his Companion Green Lotus and its Green Lotus Domain, accelerating the growth of his Spirit Rice and vegetables. With this aid, he expects the next harvest in roughly ten days—half a month earlier than usual.
• The accelerated harvest schedule could provide an additional harvest each year, and because Xu owns the Green Lotus Domain, the resulting profits would not need to be shared.
• Xu uses his max-level Verdant Touch Finger on the Spirit Rice, vegetables, and four-leaf clovers in hopes of triggering mutations. The rice, cabbage, and watermelons all fail to mutate.
• Two four-leaf clovers successfully mutate into Big-Leaf Grass, a valuable plant containing wind spiritual energy. Its leaves can be refined into flying tools, with each leaf worth dozens of Low-Grade Spirit Stones.
• Rather than sell the Big-Leaf Grass, Xu considers using it to replace or improve his damaged Advanced Flying Paper Crane. He plans to eventually find a forger from Foundry Peak to create a discreet flying tool.
• Xu receives a long-unused Communication Talisman from Sun Rong, head of the Sun Clan at the Rogue Cultivator Market. Sun persuades him to return to the market in a few days.
• It is revealed that Sun Rong has arranged for his son, Sun Peng, to propose marriage using five hundred catties of Second-Grade Spirit Rice as the betrothal gift.

Character Developments

• Xu Changqing demonstrates increasing farming expertise and efficiency after three years of cultivation. He remains patient and pragmatic despite repeated mutation failures.
• His success with two Big-Leaf Grass mutations highlights his growing fortune and the benefits of his farming abilities.
• Xu continues to favor practicality and secrecy: instead of selling the valuable plants, he considers using them to improve his own transportation while avoiding conspicuous treasures.
• Sun Rong actively seeks to strengthen his family’s position by arranging a marriage alliance involving Xu’s valuable Spirit Rice.
• Sun Peng appears eager and dependent on his father’s efforts, awaiting news of the marriage proposal.

Significant Themes

• Steady cultivation and accumulated effort: Xu’s years of farming have improved both his skills and his harvest yields.
• Fortune through patience: Numerous failed mutations do not discourage Xu, and persistence eventually produces two valuable results.
• Resourcefulness and self-sufficiency: Xu prefers turning his harvest into useful tools rather than simply selling it.
• Economic and social value of cultivation: Second-Grade Spirit Rice and mutated spiritual plants function not only as commodities but also as tools for forging alliances and arranging marriages.
• Low-key development: Xu consistently avoids unnecessary attention, choosing discreet solutions over flashy or conspicuous ones.

Character Interactions

• Xu interacts affectionately with Wangwang, who follows him eagerly, while the Pearl Chicken remains asleep and continues growing unusually large.
• Xu and Sun Rong exchange messages through the Communication Talisman. Sun uses their long absence and the reminder of the Spirit Rice transaction to persuade Xu to visit the market.
• After the call, Sun Rong informs Sun Peng that Xu will soon arrive, allowing them to move forward with their planned marriage proposal.

Chapter Summary

1. Key Plot Points and Events

• Xu Changqing receives a Communication Talisman and decides to sell one mutated Four-Leaf Clover while keeping the other. He plans to have the Immortal Sect’s Foundry Peak smiths craft what he needs rather than trusting outside smiths.
• After ten days, Xu harvests his fully matured summer crops:
  • Second-Grade Spirit Rice remains Supreme Grade with a yield of 4,000 jin.
  • Chinese cabbage and watermelons improve from High-Quality to Supreme Grade, likely because of the Green Lotus Domain.
  • The harvest grants him 13,367 days—roughly thirty-six years—of additional lifespan.
• After accounting for sect dues and the rice owed to Hu Bugui, Han Su, and Li Lingbi, Xu possesses 6,500 jin of Spirit Rice, worth approximately 5,000 Low-Grade Spirit Stones.
• He harvests two mutated Four-Leaf Clovers, now identified as Mutated Broadleaf Grass, gaining another twenty days of lifespan.
• Xu later visits the hidden cave at Stone Mountain and harvests the mature Mutated Child Rice. The harvest increases his lifespan by another 1,000 days, while he preserves the Mutated Mother Rice so it can continue producing superior offspring.
• His total lifespan reaches 147,148 days—exactly about four hundred years—despite being only a Foundation Establishment Early Stage cultivator.
• Before traveling to the Rogue Cultivator Market, Xu prepares food and water for Wangwang and the Pearl Chickens, prioritizing their well-being over the urgent business of the Sun Clan.
• On his way to Foundry Peak, Xu observes the ongoing Formal Disciple competitions. He learns that Chu Qiu of Beast Spirit Valley has taken the top position in the preliminary rankings.

2. Character Developments

• Xu Changqing: His farming ability, efficiency, wealth, and lifespan continue to grow. He remains cautious, practical, and detached from sect competition. Despite acquiring extraordinary longevity, he stays committed to farming and caring for his spirit beasts rather than pursuing fame or conflict.
• Chu Qiu: Introduced as a remarkably gifted Formal Disciple from Beast Spirit Valley. He possesses Water-Wood Dual Spiritual Roots, exceptional comprehension, and the recognition of a thousand-year spirit beast, allowing him to surpass several previously established prodigies.
• Lan Tian, Shi Gandang, Rong Yan, Huo Wan, and Jian Hanxin: Their reputations remain strong, but they are displaced from the top ranking by Chu Qiu.
• The Mutated Mother Rice: Retained by Xu as a valuable long-term resource because it can produce an ongoing supply of Mutated Child Rice.

3. Significant Themes

• Accumulation through patience and cultivation: Xu’s steady farming produces wealth, power, and longevity without dramatic risks.
• Practicality over ambition: Xu avoids unnecessary danger, trusts sect specialists, and prioritizes reliable resources and daily responsibilities.
• Longevity and mortality: Reaching a four-hundred-year lifespan highlights Xu’s unusual advantage, but the chapter ends by emphasizing that even geniuses eventually die and become dust.
• Detachment from worldly competition: Xu views the rising talents and sect rankings with interest but does not envy or pursue them.
• Nurturing and sustainability: Preserving the Mutated Mother Rice demonstrates Xu’s preference for maintaining renewable resources instead of exploiting them immediately.

4. Character Interactions

• Xu communicates indirectly with others through the Communication Talisman regarding his crops and potential smithing arrangements.
• His harvested rice must be distributed among the Immortal Sect, Hu Bugui, Han Su, and Li Lingbi, reflecting his ongoing obligations and relationships.
• Xu’s strongest personal concern is for Wangwang and the Pearl Chickens; he prepares their meals and water before leaving, contrasting his priorities with the Sun Clan’s urgent commercial needs.
• At Foundry Peak, Xu listens to other disciples discussing Chu Qiu’s background and accomplishments. These conversations introduce Chu Qiu as the newest major rival in the Formal Disciple rankings and reinforce the growing competition before the Grand Competition.

Chapter Summary

Key Plot Points and Events

• Xu Changqing leaves Sword Pavilion aboard a Giant Flying Sword. During the journey, he and the others encounter Lord Crane Seven, a powerful thousand-year spirit beast from Beast Spirit Valley, carrying its master, Chu Qiu. The crane’s immense presence intimidates everyone, but it passes without incident.
• Upon arriving in Dongqing City, Xu Changqing disguises himself as an ordinary older rogue cultivator by changing clothes and adding a fake mustache.
• Before contacting the Sun Clan, he investigates current Spirit Rice prices. He sells the eight hundred jin of High-Quality First-Grade Spirit Rice obtained from Zhang Er’s group, earning 114 Low-Grade Spirit Stones.
• Xu visits the auction house, where a single page of the Earth-Grade earth-cultivation technique, Dragon-Shaking Art, is being auctioned. Despite being incomplete and potentially unusable, it attracts intense competition and is ultimately purchased by Wang He of the Third Demon-Hunting Squad for 300 Mid-Grade Spirit Stones.
• The auctioneer then presents five unidentified spirit-plant seeds recovered from the stomach sac of a five-hundred-year Rolling Earth Dragon. The seeds survived severe digestive corrosion, suggesting extraordinary vitality, but their species cannot be determined.
• Most bidders hesitate because of the uncertainty. When the price reaches 31 Mid-Grade Spirit Stones and stalls, Xu Changqing enters the auction, bidding 33 Mid-Grade Spirit Stones.

Character Developments

• Xu Changqing demonstrates caution and strategic thinking. He avoids drawing attention by disguising himself and carefully researches market prices before conducting business.
• His identity as a spirit farmer becomes especially important when he shows strong interest in the unknown seeds. His Wood Spirit Root and enthusiasm for cultivation make him more willing than others to accept the risk.
• Xu also displays a practical attitude toward incomplete techniques: unlike the bidders seeking Dragon-Shaking Art, he recognizes that a single isolated page may have little value without the rest of the method.
• Chu Qiu is established as an important and formidable figure through his bond with the top-ranked Crane Seven.
• Wang He is shown to possess considerable resources and influence, successfully using his reputation to discourage further bidding on Dragon-Shaking Art.

Significant Themes

• Power and status: The appearance of Crane Seven and Chu Qiu emphasizes the vast differences in strength within the cultivation world.
• Disguise and caution: Xu’s transformation reflects the dangers of revealing his identity and his preference for operating discreetly.
• Scarcity and value: Spirit Rice, especially Supreme Grade varieties, is treated as a precious resource controlled by powerful cultivators and institutions.
• Risk versus opportunity: The Dragon-Shaking Art fragment and unknown seeds illustrate how cultivators must judge whether uncertain treasures are worth investing in.
• Hidden potential: The seeds’ survival inside a Greater Demon suggests they may possess extraordinary qualities despite their unknown origins.

Character Interactions

• Xu and the travelers react with fear and awe to Crane Seven’s overwhelming pressure, discussing its ranking and strength after it passes.
• Xu indirectly competes with other rogue cultivators at the auction, initially observing their behavior before entering the bidding himself.
• The auction host explains the history and uncertain value of the seeds, while the bidders debate whether their resilience makes them valuable or merely dangerous curiosities.
• Xu’s final bid of 33 Mid-Grade Spirit Stones marks his first direct move in the auction and sets up the likely acquisition of the mysterious seeds.

Chapter Summary

Key Plot Points and Events

• Xu Changqing wins five unidentified Spirit Plant seeds at auction for 33 Mid-Grade Spirit Stones. The seeds vary in size and color, but he postpones examining them.
• He observes that several auction items—including the earth-element Dragon-Shaking Art, the seeds recovered from a Rolling Earth Dragon, and the damaged Earth-based Mountain-Settling Seal—seem connected to Earth Spiritual Power. He suspects a major earth-related event occurred deep within the Black Forest.
• After leaving the auction, Xu contacts Sun Rong to complete their Spirit Rice trade. Sun Rong instead sends his son, Sun Peng.
• Xu exchanges 500 jin of Supreme-Grade Spirit Rice for five Mid-Grade Spirit Stones. Sun Peng explains that the extra payment is intended to compensate Xu for his travel.
• Sun Peng invites Xu to his upcoming wedding. Xu accepts the invitation and gives him Supreme-Grade Spirit Vegetables as a wedding gift.
• Sun Peng trades Xu a Water-Storage Pearl, an everyday spiritual artifact capable of storing roughly ten tons of liquid, including water and even fish.
• On returning to the inn, Xu samples three popular Spirit Rice Wines from the market. One contains grain residue, another is sour and poorly brewed, while the third is fragrant, sweet, and expertly made.
• Although the best market wine is inferior to Xu’s own Spirit Rice Wine, he checks its attribute panel and discovers that it can be upgraded from “Expert” to “Masterful Hand” by consuming 1,888 days of lifespan. He eagerly agrees.

Character Developments

• Xu Changqing remains observant and cautious, recognizing possible connections between the auction items and hidden events in the Black Forest. His confidence in his own abilities also grows, particularly regarding Spirit Rice Wine production.
• He demonstrates generosity by giving Sun Peng valuable Supreme-Grade vegetables as a wedding gift, while still maintaining a practical and somewhat impatient attitude during negotiations.
• Sun Peng develops from a nervous first-time business partner into an appreciative and ambitious ally. He is deeply impressed by Xu’s Spirit Rice and vegetables and realizes that forming a relationship with Xu could greatly benefit the Sun Clan.
• Sun Peng’s ambitions expand beyond short-term profit: he hopes the family may eventually rise in Dongqing City and send descendants to an Immortal Sect.

Significant Themes

• Hidden connections and foreshadowing: The repeated appearance of Earth-related treasures suggests a larger mystery involving the Black Forest and Earth Spiritual Roots.
• Value beyond appearances: Xu’s Spirit Rice and vegetables initially seem ordinary or unbelievable to Sun Peng, but their intense spiritual energy reveals their exceptional quality.
• Trade and relationship-building: Business exchanges also serve as opportunities to establish alliances and increase family prestige.
• Craftsmanship and superiority: The chapter contrasts the poor quality of ordinary market wine with Xu’s superior product, reinforcing his confidence and highlighting the importance of refinement.
• Ambition and social advancement: Sun Peng views Xu as a potential turning point for the Sun Clan’s future prosperity and cultivation prospects.

Important Character Interactions

• Xu Changqing and the auction host: Xu acquires the unidentified seeds and observes the apparent Earth-element pattern among the auction items.
• Xu Changqing and Sun Peng: They negotiate the Spirit Rice trade, exchange a wedding invitation and gift, and complete a second trade involving the Water-Storage Pearl. Their interaction establishes mutual respect and the possibility of a lasting alliance.
• Sun Peng and his father, Sun Rong: Although Sun Rong does not appear directly, his prior instructions and judgment influence Sun Peng’s actions. Sun Peng confirms that his father was correct to value a relationship with Xu.
• Xu Changqing and the Spirit Rice Wine: By comparing three wines and examining his own wine’s attributes, Xu recognizes its superiority and chooses to upgrade it to the “Masterful Hand” level.

Chapter Summary: “Refining Big-Leaf Grass, Cultivating New Seeds”

Key Plot Points and Events

• Xu Changqing finishes upgrading Spirit Rice Wine to the Masterful Hand level by consuming 1,888 days of lifespan. The upgraded wine:
  • Increases spiritual qi absorption speed,
  • Reduces spiritual power consumption for wood-element techniques,
  • Improves comprehension of cultivation techniques while intoxicated,
  • Enhances the digestion of spirit rice,
  • Has greatly reduced negative effects.
• He considers finding a long-term business partner for the wine. The Sun Clan seems suitable, but their previous transaction is already complete, so he plans to approach them again during a future occasion.
• Xu returns to the Immortal Sect and visits Foundry Peak to have his mutated Big-Leaf Grass refined into a transportation tool.
• He learns that refiners have different ranks and prices. He chooses Expert Tier refiner Zhu Tong, whose seventy-percent success rate is the highest among the available refiners. The refinement is expected to take up to seven days, with half the fee refunded if it fails.
• After returning to his Spirit Fields, Xu feeds himself and his spirit beasts, Wangwang and the Pearl Chicken, before examining five mysterious seeds purchased at auction.
• Using his Wood Spiritual Power, he determines that three pale-green seeds are wood-attributed and chooses to cultivate one first.
• With the help of his Companion Green Lotus, Black Soil, and spring water, the seed rapidly sprouts.
• Xu identifies it as a Green Gourd Seed, a valuable plant whose mature gourd can be refined into a storage tool that preserves and adds Wood Qi to stored items. After a century of growth, it may even become a spirit artifact.

Character Developments

• Xu Changqing continues to demonstrate a practical and calculated approach to cultivation and business. He avoids overspending on the Big-Leaf Grass refinement while still selecting the most reliable affordable refiner.
• His confidence in his cultivation-related abilities grows as he uses the Companion Green Lotus to bypass ordinary planting and nurturing processes.
• Xu also displays increasing interest in developing useful agricultural and crafting resources rather than focusing solely on direct cultivation.

Significant Themes

• Resource optimization: Xu carefully weighs costs, risks, and benefits when choosing a refiner and planning his future wine business.
• The value of cultivation abilities: The Companion Green Lotus dramatically accelerates plant growth, emphasizing how Xu’s unique advantages allow him to cultivate rare resources quickly.
• Long-term investment: Both the Spirit Rice Wine and Green Gourd represent potential future businesses and valuable assets.
• Agriculture and artifact refinement: The chapter connects spirit farming with crafting, showing how cultivated plants can become powerful tools or spirit artifacts over time.
• Patience and development: The Green Gourd’s greatest potential requires a century of growth, highlighting the long-term nature of cultivation-world opportunities.

Character Interactions

• Xu negotiates with a Foundry Peak apprentice, learning about refiner ranks, fees, and failure compensation before commissioning Zhu Tong.
• His relationship with Wangwang is affectionate and familiar; the dog eagerly checks Xu for unfamiliar scents upon his return.
• The Pearl Chicken remains wary of Wangwang, avoiding close contact because of the dog’s tendency to knock it away.
• Xu’s interactions with the Immortal Sect’s workers and his spirit beasts reinforce his practical personality and his growing domestic life within the Spirit Fields.

Chapter Summary

Key Plot Points and Events

• Xu Changqing determines that the remaining two identical seeds will likely also grow into Green Gourds, though his Verdant Touch Finger may cause unpredictable further mutations.
• He decides to plant one Green Gourd seed casually rather than cultivate it on a large scale, since gourds are valuable but not essential.
• He places the other two unidentified seeds near the Companion Green Lotus, using its Green Lotus Domain to accelerate their growth.
• After expending considerable spiritual power, both seeds sprout:
  • The dark-red seed becomes a Blazing Fire Vine.
  • The earthy-yellow seed becomes Earth-Attracting Grass.
• Xu researches both plants in Myriad Records of Spirit Fields and discovers their valuable mutation possibilities.
• He realizes that the five seeds purchased for only 33 Mid-Grade Spirit Stones may yield enormous profits if even one plant mutates.

Character Developments

• Xu Changqing becomes increasingly optimistic and commercially minded as he evaluates the seeds’ potential value.
• His knowledge of spirit plants allows him to recognize the Blazing Fire Vine and investigate the unfamiliar Earth-Attracting Grass.
• He begins considering practical uses for mutations, particularly using Earth Dragon Saliva as bait for Dragonfish in Black Dragon Pool.
• His cautious attitude remains evident: he plans to grow only one Green Gourd casually while waiting to see what the other plants become.

Significant Themes

• Unexpected profit and opportunity: A seemingly mediocre auction purchase may become extremely lucrative through mutation.
• Unpredictability of cultivation: Xu’s Verdant Touch Finger can produce unknown mutation paths, making the plants impossible to value with certainty.
• Resourcefulness and experimentation: Xu connects the uses of one plant’s mutation to his interest in fishing for Dragonfish.
• Patience and investment: The chapter emphasizes allowing rare plants to develop while assessing their long-term potential.
• Everyday humor amid cultivation: Wangwang’s irritation at the cicadas and the Pearl Chicken’s amusement add a lighthearted contrast to Xu’s serious calculations.

Character Interactions

• Xu mainly interacts with his spirit plants and cultivation resources, using spiritual power, Black Soil, spring water, and the Companion Green Lotus to grow the seeds.
• Wangwang is disturbed by the cicadas while resting beneath the poplar tree and leaves angrily when he cannot climb the tree.
• The Pearl Chicken appears entertained by Wangwang’s misfortune.
• Xu’s thoughts about Dragonfish and Rolling Earth Dragons show him extending the practical applications of his discoveries beyond simple cultivation.

Important Plant Values

• Green Gourd: Ordinary fruits are modestly valuable, but mutations such as Mini Gourds and Giant Gourds can be worth hundreds of Mid-Grade Spirit Stones or more as storage artifacts.
• Blazing Fire Vine: Its mutations—Scorching Flame Vine, Blazing Spirit Vine, and Flame Dragon Vine—range from valuable combat and defensive resources to extremely expensive spirit artifacts.
• Earth-Attracting Grass: Normally inexpensive, but its mutation, Earth Dragon Saliva, can be highly sought after as bait for Rolling Earth Dragons and potentially useful for attracting Dragonfish.

Chapter Summary: “Third Planting: Big-Leaf Grass Successfully Refined”

Key Plot Points and Events

• Xu Changqing summons Han Su to loosen the soil in his Spirit Fields. Han Su prioritizes helping Xu over his mining duties because Xu’s Supreme-Grade Spirit Rice has enabled him to advance from Middle Qi Refining to Late Qi Refining.
• Xu offers Han Su his damaged Advanced Flying Paper Crane for thirty Low-Grade Spirit Stones once he replaces it. Han Su accepts, valuing the increased travel speed.
• Han Su loosens the soil efficiently, mixing the ash from Xu’s slash-and-burn farming with the Black Soil. The method has successfully prevented pest infestations throughout the season.
• In payment, Xu gives Han Su one hundred jin of Supreme-Grade Spirit Rice and several large watermelons, reminding him that only fifty jin remains under their agreement. After that, Han Su will no longer be paid for additional soil-loosening this year.
• Xu contacts Hu Bugui to arrange a six-month supply of Spirit Beast Manure. He specifically requires it to be processed first, having learned that fresh manure can consume Earth Qi and conceal insect eggs. Xu realizes that Hu’s earlier use of fresh manure likely caused past pest problems but chooses not to hold a grudge.
• With the soil and fertilizer prepared, Xu plants another crop of Spirit Rice. Thanks to the Green Lotus Domain, he can harvest five times a year instead of the usual four, giving him a significant economic advantage.
• Three days later, Xu learns that his Big-Leaf Grass transportation tool has been successfully refined at Foundry Peak—and unexpectedly reaches Advanced quality.
• With only one drop of spiritual power remaining, Xu safely rides the Flying Paper Crane to collect it. He leaves Wangwang in charge of guarding the home, fields, animals, food, and water.
• At Forging Room A-17, Xu meets Zhu Tong, a massive and intimidating Expert Tier forger, who enthusiastically welcomes him.

Character Developments

• Xu Changqing continues to expand his farming advantage through careful planning, improved agricultural techniques, and cooperation with other disciples. He is increasingly prosperous and efficient, but remains practical and forgiving.
• Han Su demonstrates loyalty and ambition. His dependence on Xu’s rice has significantly accelerated his cultivation, and he willingly sacrifices mining time to maintain their relationship.
• Hu Bugui has become one of Xu’s trusted friends and suppliers. Their relationship has moved beyond a simple business arrangement despite Hu’s earlier mistake with the manure.
• Wangwang is entrusted with broad responsibility, showing Xu’s confidence in its ability to protect and manage the household.
• Zhu Tong is introduced as an enormous, powerful, and energetic forger whose appearance contrasts with his friendly enthusiasm.

Significant Themes

• Mutual benefit and cooperation: Xu’s success is supported by agreements with Han Su and Hu Bugui, while those disciples also gain valuable resources from him.
• Agricultural knowledge and innovation: Proper soil treatment, processed fertilizer, pest prevention, and accelerated cultivation distinguish Xu from ordinary spirit farmers.
• Efficiency and long-term planning: Xu calculates harvest frequency, labor costs, transportation needs, and resource output to maximize his profits.
• Forgiveness and trust: Xu acknowledges Hu Bugui’s earlier mistake but chooses to preserve their friendship, emphasizing present cooperation over past grievances.
• Unequal advancement: Xu’s farming methods and Green Lotus Domain allow him to progress far beyond other spirit farmers, while Han Su’s cultivation also surpasses his peers through access to Xu’s rice.

Important Character Interactions

• Xu and Han Su: They negotiate labor, payment, and the future sale of Xu’s Flying Paper Crane while reinforcing their mutually beneficial partnership.
• Xu and Hu Bugui: Xu requests properly processed manure and demonstrates both agricultural expertise and willingness to forgive.
• Xu and Wangwang: Xu gives Wangwang an extensive list of duties before leaving, humorously treating it as guardian of the entire household.
• Xu and Foundry Peak staff: They confirm that the Big-Leaf Grass transportation tool was refined to Advanced quality, exceeding expectations.
• Xu and Zhu Tong: Their first meeting ends the chapter with a comedic contrast between Xu’s ordinary stature and Zhu Tong’s immense, intimidating physique and exuberant welcome.

Chapter Summary

Key Plot Points and Events

• Xu Changqing visits Zhu Tong to receive the Big-Leaf Grass she forged as his personal means of transportation.
• Zhu Tong shocks him by effortlessly lifting his massive body with one hand and carrying him into the forging room.
• She presents the completed Big-Leaf Grass, which has four enormous rune-covered leaves surrounding a central platform.
• Zhu Tong explains its two main configurations:
  • Overlapping leaves: doubles flying speed but reduces stability.
  • Spread leaves: shields the rider from wind and rain while providing limited defense.
• Xu Changqing imprints the item with his Wood Spiritual Power, binding it exclusively to himself. Its abilities are revealed as:
  • Low-Grade Wind Control
  • Low-Grade Reinforcement
  • Spirit Rune Burst
• Zhu Tong gives him a Communication Talisman so he can contact her for future forging requests.
• Overwhelmed by Zhu Tong’s immense physical presence and pressure, Xu Changqing hurriedly leaves her palace.
• Outside, he hears that Chu Qiu, ranked first, and Lan Tian, ranked second, have arranged a duel for the following morning.
• Intrigued by the clash between two Foundation Establishment cultivators—one bonded to a millennium-old spirit beast and the other to a growth-type spiritual artifact—Xu Changqing decides to watch.
• He tests the Big-Leaf Grass on his way home. It flies faster and more quietly than his paper crane, and activating the Spirit Rune Burst temporarily doubles its speed.
• However, the burst consumes enormous amounts of Spiritual Power, leaving Xu Changqing worried that he may run out of power before reaching safety.

Character Developments

• Xu Changqing: Becomes deeply impressed—and intimidated—by Zhu Tong’s strength, craftsmanship, and overwhelming presence. He gains a powerful new transportation tool but remains cautious because of his limited Spiritual Power.
• Zhu Tong: Reveals herself as both physically formidable and highly skilled at forging. Despite her rough, intimidating appearance, she is generous, attentive, and eager to help Xu Changqing.
• Chu Qiu and Lan Tian: Their reputations are expanded through the upcoming duel. Both are established as exceptional Foundation Establishment cultivators with extraordinary opportunities and powerful bonds.

Significant Themes

• Appearance versus reality: Zhu Tong looks crude and intimidating, but her forging is precise and her attitude is warm and considerate.
• Power and intimidation: Xu Changqing’s fear demonstrates the vast difference between his strength and Zhu Tong’s.
• Ingenuity and magical technology: The Big-Leaf Grass combines transportation, defensive utility, and rune-based enhancement.
• Risk and resource management: The item’s strongest ability is also dangerous because it rapidly drains Xu Changqing’s Spiritual Power.
• Competition among elites: The upcoming duel between the first- and second-ranked contestants introduces a major test of talent and opportunity.

Character Interactions

• Zhu Tong treats Xu Changqing like a younger family member, calling him “little brother” and insisting he need not be formal.
• Xu Changqing remains polite but visibly terrified, especially when Zhu Tong handles him effortlessly and pressures him to test the item.
• Zhu Tong personally demonstrates the Big-Leaf Grass, binds him to it through his spiritual imprint, and gives him a way to contact her.
• Their farewell highlights the contrast between Zhu Tong’s friendliness and Xu Changqing’s instinctive desire to escape.

Chapter Summary

Key Plot Points and Events

• Xu Changqing continues studying the incomplete High Grade movement technique, Wood-Hiding Art, using Expert-grade Yellow Rice Wine to maintain his concentration.
• At Level One, the technique grants increased movement and reaction speed, as well as reduced presence near plants.
• He spends over 13,000 days of lifespan—roughly thirty-six years—to fully restore the incomplete manual, improving its effects.
• He then rapidly raises the technique to Level Six, consuming another 10,629 days of lifespan.
• At maximum level, Wood-Hiding Art grants:
  • 60% increases to movement and reaction speed
  • 50% increased evasion speed
  • Near-total concealment and silence in vegetation
  • Extremely low detection chances when hiding near living plants, though dead plants make concealment less effective
• Xu tests the technique by hiding behind a poplar tree while calling for Wangwang. Despite the dog’s excellent senses and frantic search, it cannot detect him until he deliberately reveals himself.
• Wangwang becomes deeply relieved and affectionate upon finding Xu, emphasizing the strength of their bond.
• The following morning, Xu learns from Hu Bugui that the top-ranked and second-ranked players are preparing for a public duel.
• Rather than focusing solely on watching the fight, Xu plans to profit from the crowds by selling his high-quality watermelons, sweet potatoes, and spirit rice wine. Hu will sell grilled meat, while Lao Zhao is asked to chill the drinks and fruit.

Character Developments

• Xu Changqing demonstrates patience, resourcefulness, and willingness to invest heavily in his abilities. His restoration and full mastery of Wood-Hiding Art reveal his long-term strategic thinking.
• He also shows practical and entrepreneurial instincts, immediately recognizing the duel as a commercial opportunity rather than merely an event to watch.
• Wangwang is portrayed as intensely loyal and emotionally dependent on Xu. Its panic during his disappearance and happiness upon finding him strengthen its characterization as a devoted companion.
• Hu Bugui quickly embraces Xu’s business idea and proves willing to cooperate by selling food.
• Lao Zhao, though not directly present, is included as a useful and trusted member of their informal business group.

Significant Themes

• Investment and gradual improvement: Xu’s lifespan expenditure reflects the value he places on strengthening his foundation and mastering powerful techniques.
• Stealth and tactical advantage: Wood-Hiding Art transforms Xu into an almost undetectable presence in natural surroundings, greatly expanding his survival and combat options.
• Human-animal loyalty: Wangwang’s desperate search highlights the emotional bond between master and pet.
• Practical opportunism and commercial thinking: Xu consistently looks for ways to turn major events into profit, distinguishing himself from spectators focused only on the duel.
• Teamwork and mutual benefit: Xu, Hu Bugui, and Lao Zhao combine their resources to create a temporary food-and-drink business.

Character Interactions

• Xu’s interaction with Wangwang serves as the chapter’s emotional centerpiece. His stealth test unintentionally frightens the dog, but his affectionate reassurance restores its happiness.
• Xu and Hu Bugui discuss the upcoming duel through the Communication Talisman. Xu proposes selling refreshments, and Hu enthusiastically joins the plan.
• Xu also involves Lao Zhao because of his ability to chill the products, turning the event into a coordinated group venture.

Summary: The Three Join Forces, Immortal Cultivation-Style Barbecue (1/3)

Key Plot Points and Events

• Xu Changqing meets Hu Bugui and discusses selling food during the highly anticipated duel between the sect’s top-ranked disciple, Chu Qiu, and second-ranked disciple, Lan Tian.
• Xu argues that his Supreme Grade fruits give them an advantage over competing vendors. Hu Bugui proposes bundling his spirit beast meat with Xu’s fruit and Spirit Rice Wine at an attractive average price.
• Xu creates a rough version of mortal-world barbecue seasoning using chili peppers, salt, garlic, and sesame oil. Hu Bugui approves of its salty, spicy flavor.
• Zhao Ziyue arrives late and samples Hu Bugui’s seasoned grilled spirit beast meat. He is immediately captivated, devouring it and demanding more, confirming the dish’s commercial appeal.
• The three prepare their equipment and travel to Foundry Peak on Xu Changqing’s upgraded Big-Leaf Grass.
• Foundry Peak is packed with formal disciples, flying vehicles, stalls, and even private gambling surrounding the duel. Since they cannot enter the overcrowded viewing area, Xu chooses a strategic location along the main route where spectators will pass.
• They establish a one-stop stall: Hu Bugui grills and seasons spirit beast meat, Zhao Ziyue sells chilled Supreme Grade watermelons, and Xu sells Masterful Tier Spirit Rice Wine.
• Other vendors are already present, but the trio’s unusual grilled meat initially attracts confusion and contempt. Once the aroma spreads, however, even skeptical cultivators begin salivating and reconsidering the stall.

Character Developments

• Xu Changqing demonstrates confidence, business sense, and strategic thinking. He recognizes the value of his high-quality produce, invents the barbecue seasoning, and selects an ideal stall location.
• Hu Bugui reveals strong commercial instincts. He suggests bundling their products and becomes enthusiastic about their business prospects. He also takes on the labor-intensive job of grilling the meat.
• Zhao Ziyue is practical but impulsive, initially worried about securing a good viewing spot. His enthusiastic reaction to the barbecue confirms the food’s appeal and strengthens the trio’s confidence.
• The three begin functioning as an effective cooperative team, combining Xu’s planning, Hu’s business sense and cooking labor, and Zhao’s products and enthusiasm.

Significant Themes

• Innovation and adaptation: Xu recreates barbecue seasoning despite limited access to mortal-world ingredients, showing how familiar ideas can be adapted to a cultivation setting.
• Entrepreneurship and opportunity: The characters identify a temporary gathering as a chance to earn money and distinguish themselves from existing vendors.
• Sensory pleasure versus conventional cultivation habits: Although cultivators usually eat spiritually nourishing rice and vegetables, the rich flavor and indulgence of grilled meat awaken a strong appetite.
• Teamwork and complementary strengths: The trio succeeds by combining different products, skills, and personalities.
• Breaking social expectations: Their ordinary-looking food stall seems out of place among immortal cultivators, but its quality challenges the crowd’s assumptions.

Character Interactions

• Xu and Hu collaborate closely on pricing, bundling, and marketing strategy, with Xu encouraging Hu’s business ideas.
• Xu introduces Hu to barbecue seasoning, while Hu provides immediate feedback and helps refine the concept.
• Zhao’s arrival provides the first convincing test of the grilled meat. His intense enjoyment makes Xu and Hu exchange knowing smiles, confirming that their product will attract customers.
• The trio works together to transport and organize their supplies, with Xu leading the group and making the final strategic decisions.
• Their stall’s presence contrasts with the surrounding cultivators, who initially mock or misunderstand them before being drawn in by the food’s aroma.

Chapter Summary

Key Plot Points and Events

• Xu Changqing, Zhao Ziyue, and Hu Bugui set up a food stall outside Arena One, selling Supreme-Grade watermelon, roasted spirit-beast meat, and Supreme-Grade Spirit Rice Wine.
• The group establishes several discounted combo meals:
  • Roasted meat and Spirit Rice Wine for five Low-Grade Spirit Stones.
  • Roasted meat and watermelon for four.
  • All three items for seven.
• Hu Bugui proves exceptionally talented at sales, improvising persuasive pitches that attract customers. Their first sale is Combo Three, and the stall soon becomes extremely popular.
• Most customers favor the wine-and-meat combination, while some cultivators even create a delivery service for those trapped inside the crowded arena.
• While everyone waits for the delayed arrival of Lan Tian, Chu Qiu unexpectedly leaves Arena One and approaches the stall. The group initially fears he is angry that their business has stolen attention from the arena match.
• Instead, Chu Qiu simply asks for a cup of iced Spirit Rice Wine. He is impressed by its unusually dense spiritual qi and excellent taste, finishing the cup immediately.
• Chu Qiu praises the wine as “fine wine,” learns that Xu Changqing brewed it, and takes note of Xu’s identity.
• Lan Tian finally arrives in a flying pleasure boat, prompting Chu Qiu to return to Arena One for their anticipated confrontation.
• Xu Changqing capitalizes on Chu Qiu’s approval by displaying a sign advertising that the wine was praised by him.

Character Developments

• Xu Changqing remains cautious and discreet, but he is also pragmatic. He quickly recognizes the value of earning Chu Qiu’s goodwill and openly admits to brewing the wine.
• Hu Bugui emerges as a natural businessman. His spontaneous sales techniques, promotional combos, and enthusiastic presentation make him central to the stall’s success.
• Zhao Ziyue contributes to the stall’s operations by preparing the watermelon, though she remains puzzled by Xu Changqing’s strange comments.
• Chu Qiu, initially intimidating and emotionally distant, reveals a more approachable side when he becomes interested in the wine. His stern expression briefly softens, and he forms a favorable impression of Xu Changqing.
• Lan Tian has not yet interacted directly with the others, but his arrival marks the beginning of the long-awaited arena challenge.

Significant Themes

• Business and ingenuity: The characters turn ordinary food and drink into profitable spiritual products through pricing, presentation, and clever marketing.
• Value hidden in the mundane: Although watermelon and roasted meat originate from the mortal world, their spiritual energy and flavor make them attractive even to cultivators.
• Reputation as advertising: Chu Qiu’s praise instantly increases the wine’s prestige, and Xu Changqing cleverly uses his endorsement to attract more customers.
• Balancing caution with ambition: Xu Changqing avoids provoking powerful figures but still takes calculated opportunities to build connections and gain recognition.
• Anticipation and spectacle: The crowded stall creates a parallel source of excitement while everyone waits for the major duel between Chu Qiu and Lan Tian.

Character Interactions

• Xu Changqing, Zhao Ziyue, and Hu Bugui cooperate closely in preparing and selling the food.
• Hu Bugui negotiates with customers and presents the combo deals, while Xu pours wine and Zhao cuts watermelon.
• Customers compare prices, debate the value of the products, and increasingly choose the discounted combos.
• Chu Qiu’s intimidating arrival causes tension, but Xu’s hospitality quickly transforms the encounter into a favorable exchange.
• Chu Qiu and Xu establish a brief but meaningful connection when Chu learns Xu is the winemaker and promises to remember him.
• Lan Tian’s arrival shifts attention back to the arena and draws Chu Qiu away, leaving the stall to benefit from the publicity of his praise.

Chapter Summary: Core Disciples Come to Watch; Cultivating Water and Wood Together (3/3)

Key Plot Points and Events

• The chapter opens with the highly anticipated battle on Arena No. 1 between Chu Qiu, the top official disciple of Beast Spirit Valley, and Lan Tian, the top official disciple of Water-Control Pavilion.
• Chu Qiu has reached the Foundation Establishment Middle Stage, possesses Mutual-Generating Water and Wood Dual Spiritual Roots, and is recognized by the thousand-year spirit beast Crane Seven.
• Lan Tian is at the Foundation Establishment Early Stage with a single Water Spiritual Root and wields the growth-type spirit artifact Autumn Water Sword, which may eventually evolve into a magic artifact.
• While spectators debate the likely winner, Xu Changqing, Hu Bugui, and Zhao Ziyue watch from their stall. Xu admits he cannot predict the outcome, though he notices that Crane Seven has not appeared.
• The battle attracts powerful observers. The Qiu Clan arrives in a black flying boat, followed by several elite figures and core disciples, including Qiu Hong, Cang Xiao, Mo Xuan, and Dantai Yuanyu. Their presence places additional pressure on the other top contestants.
• Lan Tian reveals the Autumn Water Sword, whose watery blade expands dramatically to three meters and radiates intense cold.
• Chu Qiu responds by summoning countless seeds with a Wood Spirit Mark. They grow into razor-edged Sword Water Grass.
• Using a Water Spirit Mark to irrigate the plants, Chu Qiu causes them to expand to five meters and spread across most of the arena. The grass lashes toward Lan Tian like enormous cutting serpents.
• Lan Tian realizes with shock that Chu Qiu can cultivate and combine both Water and Wood Spiritual Roots, something he had not expected.

Character Developments

• Chu Qiu is shown to be extremely confident and dismissive, claiming that Lan Tian is not worthy of forcing Crane Seven to intervene. His confidence is justified by his ability to combine Water and Wood techniques in battle.
• Lan Tian demonstrates pride and determination. Though initially composed, he becomes visibly shocked when Chu Qiu reveals his dual-element cultivation. His challenge reflects his belief that a powerful Single Spiritual Root can defeat cultivators with Multiple Spiritual Roots.
• Xu Changqing remains humble about his own combat abilities, insisting that he lacks the experience to judge Foundation Establishment geniuses. Nevertheless, his companions continue to instinctively value his opinion.
• Hu Bugui and Zhao Ziyue serve as interested observers, reflecting the crowd’s excitement and curiosity.
• The arrival of the core disciples emphasizes the growing importance of the match and increases the psychological pressure on the contestants, especially other leading disciples such as Shi Gandang, Rong Yan, Huo Wan, and Jian Hanxin.

Significant Themes

• Confidence versus hidden strength: Lan Tian believes his Single Spiritual Root and Autumn Water Sword are sufficient, but Chu Qiu reveals a concealed advantage that changes the battle’s balance.
• Combination and mutual generation of elements: The chapter highlights the power of combining Water and Wood Spiritual Powers. Water dramatically accelerates the growth and destructive potential of Chu Qiu’s Sword Water Grass.
• Reputation and pressure: The battle becomes more significant when influential clans and core disciples arrive to observe. The contestants are no longer fighting only for victory but also under the scrutiny of the sect’s strongest figures.
• Cultivation talent versus technique: Lan Tian’s rare aptitude and powerful artifact are contrasted with Chu Qiu’s creative use of dual Spiritual Roots and spirit-beast backing.
• Hidden trump cards: Both sides enter the battle with abilities that spectators have only heard about or not yet seen, reinforcing the uncertainty surrounding the outcome.

Character Interactions

• Lan Tian asks Zhao Ziyue and Xu Changqing for their predictions, while Xu humorously rejects the idea that a Qi Refining spirit farmer could analyze two Foundation Establishment geniuses.
• Lan Tian challenges Chu Qiu over the absence of Crane Seven, prompting Chu Qiu’s provocative declaration that Lan Tian is not worthy of facing the spirit beast.
• The exchange intensifies the rivalry and establishes the battle’s arrogant, confrontational tone.
• The chapter ends with Lan Tian’s stunned realization that Chu Qiu’s supposed dual Spiritual Roots are not merely Water and Wood separately—Chu Qiu can use them together in a mutually reinforcing technique.

Chapter Summary

1. Key Plot Points and Events

• The spectators learn that Chu Qiu cultivates both his Water and Wood Spiritual Roots as his main roots. This is considered an extremely difficult and potentially self-destructive path because cultivating multiple main roots greatly slows cultivation and makes realm breakthroughs harder.
• Qiu Hong dismisses Chu Qiu as someone without a future and leaves before the battle ends. Other core disciples debate whether Chu Qiu’s unusual cultivation style suits Beast Spirit Valley or Blood-Iron Peak.
• Lan Tian unleashes a powerful attack with his water-attribute Autumn Water Sword, destroying Chu Qiu’s Sword Water Grass and threatening to overwhelm him.
• Chu Qiu reveals that he has mastered the low-grade Water Transformation Formula to its maximum level. The technique summons transparent, jellyfish-like “Lifeless Jellyfish” tentacles.
• The tentacles absorb the power of Lan Tian’s water-based attack, converting the deep-blue energy into their own bodies and neutralizing the strike.
• Lan Tian realizes that Chu Qiu’s technique reduces water-attribute damage by half, stores absorbed attacks, and can return that power to an opponent.
• Chu Qiu redirects the absorbed power back at Lan Tian. The tentacles transform into numerous sharp blades, piercing through Lan Tian’s water defenses and forcing him into a corner.
• With Lan Tian completely defeated and unable to continue fighting, Chu Qiu declares, “You lost!”

2. Character Developments

• Chu Qiu: Revealed to possess exceptional patience, comprehension, and preparation. Rather than relying only on his dual Spiritual Roots or powerful spirit beast, he has maximized a seemingly ordinary low-grade technique, turning it into the perfect counter to Lan Tian’s abilities. His calm confidence is justified by his overwhelming advantage.
• Lan Tian: Begins the scene arrogant and certain of victory, mocking Chu Qiu’s cultivation path. After discovering the power of the max-level Water Transformation Formula, he becomes shocked, frightened, and helpless as his own attack is used against him.
• Qiu Hong: Displays impatience and superficial judgment by leaving before witnessing the decisive turn in the battle.
• Dantai Yuanyu: Offers a more perceptive interpretation, suggesting that Chu Qiu’s cultivation of both roots may make him especially suitable for Blood-Iron Peak.
• Zhao Ziyue: Provides the crucial explanation of the Water Transformation Formula and comments wryly on Beast Spirit Valley’s acceptance of unusual cultivators.
• Xu Changqing and Hu Bugui: React with surprise and curiosity, gradually realizing that the battle was effectively decided from the beginning.

3. Significant Themes

• Preparation over conventional talent: Chu Qiu succeeds because he has perfected an overlooked technique, demonstrating that neglected abilities can become decisive when mastered fully.
• The danger and potential of unconventional paths: Cultivating both Spiritual Roots is normally viewed as foolish because of the obstacles it creates, but Chu Qiu’s unusual path may also give him exceptional versatility and power.
• Knowledge and compatibility determine victory: Lan Tian’s water-based attacks are fundamentally countered by Chu Qiu’s water-transformation technique, making the battle one-sided despite Lan Tian’s strength.
• Underestimation and arrogance: Lan Tian and Qiu Hong judge Chu Qiu by conventional cultivation standards, failing to recognize the significance of his preparation.
• Turning an opponent’s strength against them: The Lifeless Jellyfish embody the tactical principle of absorbing, storing, and returning enemy power.

4. Character Interactions

• The core disciples debate Chu Qiu’s future and whether his dual-root cultivation is foolish or suited to Blood-Iron Peak.
• Zhao Ziyue criticizes Beast Spirit Valley’s willingness to accept eccentric cultivators, while Xu Changqing reacts to his refined but cutting remarks.
• Lan Tian taunts Chu Qiu throughout the battle, calling him an idiot for cultivating both Spiritual Roots as main roots.
• Chu Qiu remains composed, reminding Lan Tian that even his spirit beast, Lord Crane Seven, is unnecessary against him.
• The confrontation ends with Chu Qiu decisively defeating Lan Tian and verbally confirming the outcome.

Chapter Summary

Plot Points and Events

• Chu Qiu and Lan Tian finally fight in the competition’s anticipated first-versus-second-place match.
• Contrary to expectations of an even battle, Chu Qiu completely overwhelms Lan Tian. His dual Water-Wood Spiritual Roots and mastery of the Water Transformation Formula at maximum level astonish the spectators.
• Lan Tian leaves in embarrassment with Huo Wan and the others, while Chu Qiu visits Xu Changqing, Zhao Ziyue, and Hu Bugui’s stall.
• Chu Qiu claims the remaining Supreme-Grade Spirit Rice Wine as compensation for Xu Changqing’s misleading advertising sign. Impressed by the wine, he gives Xu a Communication Talisman, establishing a potential future connection.
• After the spectators disperse and the stall’s remaining watermelons and roasted spirit beast meat are sold, the three friends return to Xu’s hut to count their earnings.
• Zhao Ziyue earns 300 Low-Grade Spirit Stones from the watermelons. Xu Changqing earns 685 Low-Grade Spirit Stones from his Spirit Rice Wine sales.
• Hu Bugui, Xu, and Zhao together count 5,088 Low-Grade Spirit Stones from the roasted meat and set meals.
• Their total revenue is 6,078 Low-Grade Spirit Stones. After expenses, their profit is approximately 55 Mid-Grade Spirit Stones—roughly equal to Xu Changqing’s apparent annual income.
• The three debate how to divide the profits. Xu ultimately gives Zhao 1,078 Low-Grade Spirit Stones, keeps 3,000 for himself, and awards Hu Bugui 2,000.

Character Development

• Chu Qiu is established as overwhelmingly powerful and far stronger than the rankings suggested. His victory raises his prestige and demonstrates the effectiveness of his unusual cultivation and technique mastery.
• Lan Tian suffers a major loss of status after being decisively defeated and leaving in disgrace.
• Xu Changqing demonstrates business sense, generosity, and authority within the group. He initiated the stall idea and contributed the roasted-meat concept, but also recognizes Hu Bugui’s greater physical effort.
• Hu Bugui proves to be the hardest worker, handling the continuous preparation and sale of roasted meat and set meals. His excitement over the profits reveals how financially difficult his usual life has been.
• Zhao Ziyue remains modest and self-aware, acknowledging that his contribution was limited. He is satisfied with a comparatively small share, mainly enough to buy fishing bait.
• The three’s trust and friendship deepen as they openly discuss fairness and refuse to exploit one another.

Significant Themes

• Unexpected strength and overturned expectations: Chu Qiu’s crushing victory challenges the crowd’s assumptions about Lan Tian and the tournament rankings.
• Reward matching contribution: The profit-sharing discussion emphasizes fairness, labor, initiative, and personal responsibility.
• Friendship and mutual trust: The three partners prioritize maintaining a fair relationship over maximizing personal gain.
• Economic opportunity: Their temporary food stall produces extraordinary returns, showing how innovation and cooperation can transform the fortunes of low-status cultivators.
• Humility and generosity: Zhao refuses an excessive share, while Xu and Hu insist that he receive more than he initially claims.

Character Interactions

• Chu Qiu and Xu interact as potential business associates: Chu demands the wine he was promised, then signals interest in continued contact by exchanging communication talismans.
• Xu, Hu, and Zhao excitedly count the day’s earnings together, sharing astonishment at the unexpected wealth.
• Hu and Zhao encourage Xu to accept the largest share because of his ideas, while Xu recognizes Hu’s labor and Zhao’s limited involvement.
• Zhao attempts to take only 78 Low-Grade Spirit Stones, but Xu firmly gives him 1,078 instead.
• Xu’s final division—3,000 for himself, 2,000 for Hu, and 1,078 for Zhao—reflects both his leadership and his effort to balance initiative with labor.

Chapter Summary

Key Plot Points and Events

• Hu Bugui, Zhao Ziyue, and Xu Changqing count their unexpectedly large earnings from selling grilled spirit beast meat, watermelon, wine, and seasonings at Foundry Peak.
• Zhao Ziyue wants to upgrade his fishing equipment, while Hu Bugui jokingly plans to raise spirit beasts solely to produce manure for Xu Changqing’s spirit fields.
• Xu Changqing warns that the crowd was unusually large because of Chu Qiu and Lan Tian’s duel. He also predicts that competitors will imitate them and lower prices.
• He proposes a franchise system: competitors can use their proven products and barbecue seasoning in exchange for franchise fees. Each participant will sign a Spirit Talisman Contract to prevent betrayal.
• The trio discusses profit distribution. Xu Changqing takes 70%, Hu Bugui 20%, and Zhao Ziyue 10%, reflecting their respective contributions.
• Since Bai Ling’er is no longer allowed to visit Xu Changqing because of the incident involving Qiu Feng, Zhao Ziyue agrees to help maintain Xu’s spirit fields.
• Zhao uses his third-level Minor Cloud-Rain Art to irrigate Xu’s Grade-Two Spirit Field, producing stronger and denser spirit rain than Zhang Xue’s.
• Hu Bugui explains the mysterious Black Dragon Pool, where Dragonfish and Fish Demons are known to live.
• Xu reveals that he has brewed Yellow Rice Wine, an even better bait than Spirit Rice Wine, and suggests using it to fish for Dragonfish.
• Hu Bugui and Zhao Ziyue, both highly interested in Dragonfish and fishing, eagerly agree. The three decide to explore Black Dragon Pool the next day.

Character Developments

• Xu Changqing demonstrates growing ambition and business sophistication. Rather than relying only on direct sales, he plans to build a franchise network that will generate income without requiring him to run stalls personally.
• Hu Bugui remains practical, money-minded, and comically unconventional, but he acknowledges Xu’s superior business vision. His obsession with Dragonfish and desire to become the disciple of a Golden Core fishing expert are also emphasized.
• Zhao Ziyue proves loyal and willing to contribute beyond fishing. He accepts a smaller profit share and uses his cultivation skill to help Xu’s agriculture. His enthusiasm for fishing makes him eager to join the Dragonfish expedition.
• Bai Ling’er’s absence becomes relevant to Xu’s agricultural plans, as she has been restricted by her elder sister following the Qiu Feng incident.

Significant Themes

• Entrepreneurship and expansion: Xu shifts from selling products directly to creating a franchise model based on branding, proven demand, and contractual control.
• Fairness and contribution: Although the trio are friends, they divide profits according to effort and resources, with Xu taking the largest share.
• Resourcefulness and cooperation: Each character contributes a different strength—Xu provides wine and watermelon, Hu Bugui supplies spirit beast meat, and Zhao provides irrigation.
• Ambition versus short-term profit: Hu Bugui and Zhao initially focus on immediate earnings, while Xu thinks about long-term growth and passive income.
• Friendship and mutual support: Despite negotiating profits, the three continue helping one another and sharing opportunities.
• Adventure and cultivation opportunities: The planned trip to Black Dragon Pool introduces the possibility of obtaining rare Dragonfish and advancing their respective goals.

Character Interactions

• Hu Bugui and Zhao Ziyue react with surprise and admiration to Xu Changqing’s franchise proposal.
• Xu persuades them that Spirit Talisman Contracts will secure their business arrangements.
• Hu Bugui and Zhao insist that Xu take the largest profit share, acknowledging his greater contribution.
• Xu recruits Zhao to irrigate his fields, while Hu Bugui points out Bai Ling’er’s absence.
• Zhao’s successful rain technique earns Xu’s approval and strengthens his role in the group.
• Hu Bugui’s description of Black Dragon Pool immediately excites both Xu and Zhao, uniting the three around their next venture: fishing for Dragonfish.

Chapter Summary: Earning Franchise Fees, Arriving at Hundred-Zhang Cliff (2/2)

Key Plot Points and Events

• Xu Changqing, Hu Bugui, and Zhao Ziyue return to Foundry Peak to sell their seasoned roasted meat.
• Their popularity has grown overnight. Customers who enjoyed their food abandon competing stalls, leaving the other vendors nearly deserted.
• Xu Changqing intensifies the competition by offering free roasted meat as a gesture of thanks. This draws away nearly all remaining customers and temporarily monopolizes the market.
• Zhao Ziyue approaches Liu Meng, a skilled female cultivator with a Fire Spiritual Root who has failed to reproduce their barbecue’s flavor.
• He offers her a franchise: for ten Mid-Grade Spirit Stones, she will receive their barbecue seasoning recipe and join their business.
• Liu Meng agrees after seeing the trio’s profits and signs a Spirit Talisman Contract, ensuring both sides honor the agreement.
• Hu Bugui teaches Liu Meng how to apply the seasoning. She quickly masters the technique and produces roasted meat comparable to—and eventually better than—the original.
• The trio deliberately announces that their own meat is sold out and leaves, allowing Liu Meng to take over the customer base and demonstrate the franchise’s profitability.
• Xu Changqing, Hu Bugui, and Zhao Ziyue divide the ten Mid-Grade Spirit Stones according to their shares: 70% to Xu Changqing, 20% to Hu Bugui, and 10% to Zhao Ziyue.
• They decide to repeat the process: Hu Bugui will prepare the meat, Zhao Ziyue will recruit more franchisees, and Xu Changqing will continue farming.
• The three then travel to Hundred-Zhang Cliff, where Black Dragon Pool is located.

Character Developments

• Xu Changqing shows increasing business intelligence and strategic thinking. Rather than merely selling food, he recognizes the potential to profit from the recipe itself through franchising.
• Hu Bugui remains responsible for the practical side of the enterprise, roasting meat and teaching others the technique. Though eager to go fishing, he cooperates with Xu’s plan.
• Zhao Ziyue demonstrates strong salesmanship and manipulation skills. He confidently persuades Liu Meng by emphasizing the trio’s profits and creating a sense of urgency.
• Liu Meng shifts from a defeated competitor to a confident businesswoman. Once she obtains the recipe, she quickly proves capable of surpassing the trio’s product and begins earning money.
• The trio’s partnership becomes more organized, with each member taking on a clearly defined role.

Significant Themes

• Innovation and entrepreneurship: The trio’s success comes not only from producing a superior product but from finding a new business model.
• Monopoly and competition: Their free-food promotion devastates rival vendors, illustrating how aggressive tactics can control a market.
• Knowledge as a commodity: The barbecue seasoning recipe becomes more valuable than the food itself because it can be sold repeatedly to many franchisees.
• Mutual profit and calculated investment: Liu Meng pays a relatively modest entry fee in exchange for the chance to earn much more, while the trio gains steady income with little additional effort.
• Trust and enforcement: The Spirit Talisman Contract provides legal and institutional protection, making the franchise agreement reliable.
• Teamwork and specialization: Each character contributes a different skill—production, recruitment, or overall planning—to build an efficient enterprise.

Character Interactions

• Xu Changqing directs the overall strategy and gives Zhao Ziyue permission to recruit Liu Meng.
• Zhao Ziyue initially provokes Liu Meng by implying that only clever people can profit, then reassures her with a formal contract.
• Liu Meng cautiously negotiates by demanding the contract before handing over her spirit stones, showing that she is ambitious but not reckless.
• Hu Bugui trains Liu Meng in applying the seasoning and supports her entry into the business.
• After Liu Meng succeeds, the trio leaves her to operate independently, demonstrating both confidence in their product and their intention to expand through multiple franchisees.

Chapter Summary: Deep Black Dragon Pool, Showdown of the Fishing Masters (1/2)

Key Plot Points and Events

• Xu Changqing, Hu Bugui, and Zhao Ziyue travel to the infamous Black Dragon Pool by descending Hundred-Zhang Cliff and passing through a dark underground passage.
• They reach a massive underground karst cave illuminated by Greenwater Branches, valuable plants that grow near underground water. Although the plants are worth several Low-Grade Spirit Stones, the three ignore them because their real target is the pool.
• Black Dragon Pool is revealed as a cold, eerily still pool roughly three zhang across. It is rumored to contain valuable Dragonfish and dangerous Fish Demons.
• Finding no other fishermen present, the three decide to fish separately from nearby locations while remaining close enough to assist one another.
• Xu Changqing brings three jin of his newly brewed Yellow Rice Wine, dividing it among the group for use as bait. Hu Bugui and Zhao Ziyue taste it and praise its superior flavor and quality compared with Spirit Rice Wine.
• Zhao Ziyue and Hu Bugui reveal expensive, specialized fishing rods: a green bamboo rod worth about one Mid-Grade Spirit Stone and a black iron rod worth at least two.
• Xu Changqing unexpectedly uses Big-Leaf Grass, his flying transport, as a fishing platform, attaching four lines and hooks to it. This unconventional setup causes both men to accuse him of cheating.
• The chapter ends with Xu declaring that the outing is not merely about fishing but a competition to determine the greatest fishing master.

Character Developments

• Xu Changqing displays growing confidence and ingenuity. Though cautious about the dangers of Black Dragon Pool, he adapts quickly and uses his superior Big-Leaf Grass transport to gain a possible advantage.
• Hu Bugui remains outspoken, humorous, and competitive. He is uncomfortable in the cold underground environment but eagerly participates in the fishing contest and is highly enthusiastic about Xu’s wine.
• Zhao Ziyue acts as the knowledgeable guide, explaining the route and the pool’s dangers. He is also shown to be a serious, well-funded fisherman who willingly spends heavily on equipment and bait.
• All three show strong camaraderie, expressed through teasing, insults, shared food and drink, and a friendly rivalry.

Significant Themes

• Exploration and danger: The descent into the cliff and cavern emphasizes the mystery and hazards surrounding Black Dragon Pool.
• Resourcefulness versus preparation: Zhao and Hu rely on expensive, specialized fishing rods, while Xu uses an inventive method based on Big-Leaf Grass.
• Friendship through competition: Their rivalry is playful rather than hostile, strengthening their bond through banter and shared goals.
• Value and scarcity: The chapter highlights the worth of cultivation resources such as Greenwater Branches, Spirit Stones, wine, fishing equipment, and rare Dragonfish.

Character Interactions

• Hu and Zhao guide Xu into the cave and explain the route to the pool.
• The group discusses the environment, spiritual roots, Dragonfish, and the proper use of wine as bait.
• Hu and Zhao compete over whose fishing rod is more extravagant before turning their criticism toward Xu’s unconventional “cheating” setup.
• Xu responds confidently, transforming the fishing trip into a formal showdown among the three.

Chapter Summary: Patiently Waiting, the Cunning Fish Demon (2/2)

Plot and events

Xu Changqing, Zhao Ziyue, and Hu Bugui begin their fishing contest at Black Dragon Pool after pouring in two liang of Yellow Rice Wine to attract Dragonfish. They prepare for a long wait, knowing the pool may also contain the dangerous Fish Demon. Strange bubbles approach their hooks but suddenly stop, suggesting the creature may be testing or deceiving them.
As the hours pass, Hu Bugui grows sleepy while Zhao Ziyue remains vigilant. Xu Changqing casually eats watermelon, a sweet potato, and boiled Pearl Chicken eggs while waiting. Zhao Ziyue is amazed by the eggs’ unusually rich spiritual energy, realizing that Xu Changqing’s talents extend beyond cultivation and farming to raising spirit beasts.
Eventually, the pool becomes active again. Ripples and bubbles gather around Xu Changqing’s hook, making it seem as though a Dragonfish is about to bite. However, Zhao Ziyue and Hu Bugui recognize the behavior from their previous encounter: it is likely the Fish Demon attempting to lure them into pulling the line and dragging them into the water. Xu Changqing remains still and refuses to take the bait. The water grows increasingly violent, and a massive fish tail finally breaks the surface.

Character developments

• Xu Changqing demonstrates extraordinary patience, composure, and confidence. Despite being the least experienced in fishing at Black Dragon Pool, he remains relaxed, even eating throughout the wait. When the Fish Demon appears, he quickly follows the others’ warning and avoids its trap.
• Zhao Ziyue is shown as an experienced and serious fishing enthusiast. He stays alert for hours and correctly identifies the Fish Demon’s strategy. He is also impressed by the spiritual quality of Xu Changqing’s Pearl Chicken eggs.
• Hu Bugui remains nervous because of his previous encounter with the Fish Demon, though he contributes important knowledge about its deceptive behavior. His initial sleepiness contrasts with his fear once the pool becomes active.

Significant themes

• Patience and restraint: Success in Black Dragon Pool requires waiting calmly rather than reacting impulsively.
• Cunning versus caution: The Fish Demon uses deception to provoke the fishermen into making a fatal mistake, while experience and teamwork help the group resist it.
• Hidden talent and cultivation resources: Xu Changqing’s food and spirit beasts reveal the unusual value of his agricultural abilities and suggest that his seemingly ordinary possessions contain remarkable spiritual power.
• Teamwork and shared experience: Zhao Ziyue and Hu Bugui’s previous encounter allows them to protect Xu Changqing from repeating their earlier mistake.

Character interactions

Zhao Ziyue criticizes Xu Changqing for eating instead of concentrating, but accepts one of his spiritually potent eggs and becomes astonished by its quality. When the pool stirs, Zhao and Hu Bugui quickly warn Xu Changqing that the apparent bite is likely the Fish Demon’s trap. The three then gather around Xu’s fishing position, united in tense observation as the enormous creature reveals itself.

Chapter Summary: The Fish Demon Was Wounded, and Came to Scout at Night (1/5)

Plot and Events

Xu Changqing, Hu Bugui, and Zhao Ziyue continue fishing at Black Dragon Pool, where a massive fish demon appears to be feigning weakness and tempting them to pull the hook. When the second fishing line also shows signs of movement, the three debate whether a dragonfish or the demon is involved. Xu Changqing proposes a trap: they deliberately create the impression of pulling the hook, then attack when the demon surfaces.
Using the Big-Leaf Grass, Xu generates enough force to drag the fish demon partly out of the water. The three launch a coordinated assault. Hu Bugui melts iron into flaming needles, Zhao Ziyue traps the surrounding water to restrict the demon, and Xu Changqing summons poisonous thorn grass that burrows through its scales. The demon endures the attacks and escapes by leaping to another area of the pool, snapping the fishing lines in the process.
Xu notices that the demon’s tail is already severely burned and withered, suggesting it has been injured by another powerful force. The disturbance scares away any possible dragonfish, so the group abandons the fishing attempt. Later that night, Xu Changqing secretly returns to the pool alone and summons the Demonwood Water-Evasion Boat, apparently preparing to investigate further without holding back.

Character Development

• Xu Changqing demonstrates strategic thinking and growing confidence. He recognizes the demon’s deception, devises the counterattack, and realizes that the creature may be weaker than expected because of its previous injury. His decision to return alone shows initiative and a desire to uncover the truth.
• Hu Bugui remains aggressive and vengeful after the demon’s earlier attack. He supports Xu’s risky plan and focuses his attack on the demon’s face, though he regrets lacking Foundation Establishment-level strength.
• Zhao Ziyue acts as the cautious and experienced member of the group. He worries about losing future fishing opportunities but ultimately trusts his companions and contributes vital defensive control.
• The fish demon is revealed to be cunning, dangerous, and physically injured. Its failed ambush leaves it enraged and wary of the fishermen.

Themes

The chapter emphasizes deception and counter-deception, showing both sides attempting to lure the other into a trap. Teamwork and trust allow the three cultivators to overcome the demon’s advantage underwater. The demon’s mysterious injury introduces a larger threat or unknown power connected to Black Dragon Pool, while Xu’s nighttime return highlights curiosity, risk-taking, and the pursuit of hidden truths.

Character Interactions

Xu, Hu, and Zhao debate the best course of action before agreeing to cooperate. Xu leads the strategy, Hu enthusiastically supports retaliation, and Zhao provides caution and tactical restraint. Their coordinated attacks reflect their unity as a team. The fish demon’s confrontation with them shifts their relationship from hunter and prey into an ongoing contest, which Xu intends to continue alone.